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Staggered Concrete Form with Natural Wood Integration in Urban Housing

Author:
Chae Lin Kyoung
Staggered Concrete Form with Natural Wood Integration in Urban Housing
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With a staggered concrete facade and extensive use of natural wood elements, the design creates versatile urban housing that fosters community interaction while maximizing views and sunlight.
5 key facts about this project
01
Flexible unit configurations allow for easy adaptation to residents' needs.
02
Large, staggered windows enhance natural light and outdoor views.
03
Centrally located communal areas promote social interaction among residents.
04
The design integrates concrete for structural stability with warm wood finishes.
05
Strategically positioned to maximize connection with the adjacent park.

The Flexible Tower is a modern residential design located in Vancouver, aiming to provide adaptable housing options in an urban environment. Positioned next to a park, the design connects the living spaces with nature while making the most of the available views. Overall, the focus is on creating a modular living space that can accommodate a diverse community through flexible unit configurations.

Concept and Layout

The design emphasizes flexibility, allowing units to be added or removed based on residents' needs. Inside the tower, there are various types of units: one-person, couples without children, and families. This variety allows for accommodating a broad range of lifestyles common in urban areas. Open floor plans and large windows enhance natural light, promoting an airy and welcoming atmosphere.

Materiality

The choice of materials is important for both the structure and the overall feel of the spaces. Concrete serves as the main structural material, offering strength and stability. Inside, wood adds warmth and comfort, making each living space more inviting. Large glass windows provide clear views and fill the interiors with light, connecting residents to the outdoor environment. Painting on the exterior contributes to a unified appearance, helping the building fit well within its surroundings.

Community Engagement

The design supports social interaction through its communal areas. These shared spaces are strategically placed to be easily accessible, encouraging residents to come together. This layout promotes a sense of community, allowing for relationships to form among neighbors. The balance between private units and public areas is critical, offering places for both socializing and personal retreat.

Vertical Stacking

The vertical stacking of units creates visual diversity on the building's exterior while maintaining functional use of space. The staggered arrangement of the floors adds a pleasing dynamic to the overall silhouette without losing efficiency. Centrally located stairs and elevators enhance movement throughout the tower, ensuring that it remains easy to navigate. This thoughtful design not only addresses housing needs but also contributes positively to the urban landscape of Vancouver.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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